After White House shooting, Trump orders probe of Afghans living in the US
New York (The Uttam Hindu): Two National Guard soldiers were shot on Wednesday afternoon, a short distance from the White House in Washington, DC. The attack occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. at the intersection of 17th and I Streets, near the Farragut Metro Station. Both soldiers are in critical condition. The attacker was also injured in the exchange of fire and has been transported to a local hospital under tight security.
US President Donald Trump has called the incident a "terrorist attack" and ordered increased security in Washington, D.C. Trump said that all people brought to the US from Afghanistan in 2021 should be thoroughly vetted again.
According to law enforcement agencies, the suspect has been identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal. He entered the US in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome. Initial investigations suggest he acted alone, although some aspects of his background remain unconfirmed. The FBI is investigating the incident as a possible terrorist attack. The Department of Homeland Security has also confirmed that the suspect entered the US from Afghanistan under the refugee program.
A statement issued by the White House expressed support for the National Guard and law enforcement agencies and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. The motive, conspiracy, and possible terrorist ties to the attack are currently under investigation.
In his late-night address, Trump attacked former President Joe Biden, saying the suspect was brought to the US in 2021 from "hell-like Afghanistan" by the Biden administration. He claimed the suspect is a foreign national and requires a thorough re-investigation. In his Truthout social post, Trump called the attacker an "animal" and said he would "pay a very heavy price."
Metropolitan Police Department Executive Assistant Chief Jeffrey Carroll said the attack appeared to be "sudden and completely deliberate." He said the attacker opened fire on National Guard troops without warning, prompting police and Guard troops to immediately respond. The entire incident is currently under investigation, and security agencies are working to determine the motive behind the attack.